Sources close to Slaven Bilic downplay links with Ireland job
Those close to Slaven Bilic have downplayed a report linking him with the vacant Ireland manager's job, noting his contract with Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Fateh runs until June of 2025.
The former Premier League manager emerged as a contender to become the next Ireland boss on Saturday evening with the Irish Mirror reporting that the Croatian would be willing to accept the salary - touted to be around the €500,000 mark - the FAI are said to be offering Stephen Kenny's eventual replacement.
It was added that he would not be able to take up the role until May, when the Saudi league wraps up.
In recent days, John O'Shea was confirmed as the interim head coach for the March friendly fixtures against Belgium and Switzerland, due to take place on the 23rd and 26th of the month.
Brian Kerr, Paddy McCarthy, Glenn Whelan and Rene Gilmartin will join O'Shea's ticket for the end-of-month encounters.
Bilic has enjoyed success at different points in his managerial career.
The 55-year-old is noted for leading Croatia to the Euro 2008 quarter-final, while he guided West Ham to impressive Premier League finishes during his tenure at the East Londoners between 2015 and 2017.
He also led West Brom to promotion from the Championship in 2020 but was eventually sacked halfway through the following top-flight campaign. A stint at Watford during the 2022/23 ended in his dismissal six months after his appointment.
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